DFB-Pokal: Füllkrug and Pejcinovic impress, eyeing national team spots

Two German strikers, Niclas Füllkrug and Dzenan Pejcinovic, are making strong cases for inclusion in the national team following impressive performances in the DFB-Pokal. Füllkrug, a former Bundesliga top scorer, has returned to his old club Werder Bremen and immediately found the net in their 3-0 cup victory over Lüneburger SK Hansa.

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You best repay the trust as a striker with goals: I managed that quite well today!

Pejcinovic, a 21-year-old forward, had an even more spectacular debut for VfB Stuttgart, scoring three goals in their 4-0 win against Rostock. His €25 million transfer from VfL Wolfsburg to Stuttgart is seen as a significant step in his career, potentially paving the way for a national team call-up.

Both players are being eyed as potential candidates for the German national team, especially with Jürgen Klopp taking over as the new Bundestrainer. Füllkrug, 33, brings experience and a proven track record, having previously played 24 times for the national team. However, his age might make him less of a focus for the team's rebuilding phase.

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It was a dream debut for the boy. We fought for him. It was clear very early on for him and for us that we wanted to do this. The boy is a joy!

Pejcinovic, on the other hand, represents the future. His youth, physical presence, and goal-scoring ability have impressed Stuttgart's coaching staff. "He's a joy to watch!" said Stuttgart coach Sebastian Hoeneß, who believes Pejcinovic has the potential to develop further and eventually earn a place in the national squad. His performance in the upcoming Bundesliga opener against Bayern Munich could serve as a direct audition for the national team coach.

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He will develop. He will continue to stabilize in the Bundesliga. And then the path can certainly lead there at some point.